Country Thunder AB is Here!

The debut of Country Thunder Music’s inner city festival in Calgary, Alberta starts tomorrow! Featuring Luke Bryan, Big & Rich, Tim McGraw and many more as they invade Prairie Winds Park in NE Calgary for one unforgettable time, the festival takes place all this weekend (August 19-21, 2016).

In case you’re curious about some “insider” tips for making the most of your Country Thunder Alberta experience, we had the chance to speak with Gerry (one of the concert producers), and he had this to say:

Q. Where is the best concert merch to be found?

Everybody’s tastes are different, so we try to have a nice variety of things. The options are spectacular, really. We have long-sleeved shirts, festival sleeveless shirts featuring the music line ups – and lots of men’s and women’s choices. All the artists will have their own merch too. There are also Country Thunder and Lammle’s tents on site that are tricked out, plus the Boutique of Leathers next door. These would be my hot picks.

Q. Are there ATMs on site? What about food?

Yes, there are ATMs on site. There are lots strategically placed around Prairie Winds Park. There are also coupon booths (places where you buy coupons for food and liquor) covering the park . All food and beverage are purchased by voucher. Adult beverages are very fan friendly – priced at $6. There are spirits and beer available, Palm Bay has 2 flavors on site and we have Bud light Apple. No outside food or beverages are allowed in.

Q. Any advice for finding the porta potty locations with the least chance of a line-up? We do a ratio to make things comfortable, so people aren’t waiting in line. The same goes with food and beverage, so they’re not waiting in line for long times. We have to have lots of those amenities available for people to facilitate an event this size.

Tim McGraw is one of the headliners at Country Thunder, AB, 2016.

Q. Best place to be for a chance celebrity siting?

They typically don’t walk out in the general population, but they have been known to pop into our hospitality tents! As a rule, artists are in their dressing rooms before they go out. But it’s also possible to spot them at a hotel beforehand.

Q. Best way to beat the heat? (Or beat the rain?) Stay well hydrated. There are lots of water and drinks available on site. There are also lots of treed areas to catch shade. Bring sunscreen and bug spray. Also appropriate clothing for later in the evening, if it becomes cool.

Q. Aside from the concerts, are there any other specialty acts happening? The Country 105 stage will offer a real nice variety of local artists. This includes the Dungarees (from Edmonton, AB, who have opened up for Miranda Lambert). They will be playing twice on Sunday. There’s also a line dancing group doing a variety of things on site around both stages. There are a number of games that Budweiser will be doing, same with Country 105.

*Q. Are there any upgrade packages available once you’re already on the ground? If you want to upgrade your experience, you have to do that before you enter our venue. Check out our website for more info at: www.countrythunder.com

Upgrading to the Backstage Experience is really the right way to see this show. Plus you get parking near the site. The value of this festival is excellent and great for the market.

Q. On the topic of parking, any suggestions? We have very limited for parking for this festival. So the best way is via shuttles from Cowboys, or taxi delivery. Or the LRT is an efficient and safe method of transportation without the mayhem of bringing you car. Or if you’re riding your bike down, AMA @albertamotorassociation has roadside assistance for your bike!

“We are sure excited to be able to be bringing this great venue to Calgary and it’s certain to be an excellent time!” – Gerry